Demonstrating specific strength in the life sciences and tech spheres, Stephenson Harwood is highly regarded for its expertise in pre-seed and series round investments. Kristian Shearsby heads the team, advising investors and companies on financing round, while Malcolm MacDougall routinely handles bolt-on acquisitions and exits. Michelle Gomes is hailed as ‘extremely commercially minded’.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary

Testimonials

Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.

  • 'Michelle Gomes has shown a deep understanding of the nuances that come with early-stage fundraising. Her advice has been razor-sharp, always ahead of the curve, and grounded in a clear understanding of both our goals and the expectations of venture investors.'
  • 'We’ve felt empowered and confident every step of the way. We’re incredibly grateful for their support and could not have asked for a better team.’
  • ‘Michelle Gomes, in particular, has been an absolute force—her brilliance, professionalism, and dedication have been nothing short of extraordinary. She has guided us through the complexities of the pre-seed investment process with the perfect balance of strategic insight and legal precision.'

  • ‘The team is extremely commercially minded and responsive.’

Key clients

  • 4Bio Capital
  • 500 Global
  • Pembroke VCT plc
  • Fat32 Limited
  • Flarin Holdings Limited
  • Protium Green Solutions Limited
  • BGF (British Growth Fund)
  • Archean Chemical Industries Limited
  • Al Shams Investment Limited
  • UCB Ventures
  • Augmentum Fintech plc

Work highlights

Advised Protium Green Solutions Limited, a green hydrogen energy solutions provider, on its £31m Series B funding round.
Acted for Pembroke VCT plc as it led a highly publicised £5m follow-on round in activewear brand, TALA, alongside other investors including Venrex and Active Partners.
Advised venture fund, 500 Global, for several years in relation to their pre-seed, seed and series round investments in UK based businesses.

Practice head

Kristian Shearsby

Other key lawyers

Malcolm MacDougall;  Michelle Gomes; Zoe Yuile; Bryton Chin